The organization dates back to 1972 when a group of airport managers returning from a AAAE Conference felt that as airport managers going to AAAE was informative for them, but no local airport management problems were discussed or resolved. Their discussions culminated in the idea of having a state organization of airport managers. Part of organizing group was Charles "Chuck" Olson and Robert Trainor of Worcestor Airport, William "Pinky" Prentice and Mel Thomas (Commission Chair) of Plymouth Airport. In addition Izzie Esinor (New Bedford) and Arnie Stymest (former Norwood Airport Manager) also helped get the Association started in Massachusetts.
The original intent of the group was to share ideas and aviation events happening in Massachusetts. The group also wanted a mechanism to get, or share, equipment for each airport. The group offered insight as to what equipment and supplies were available from government surplus that could be used at a public airport. Many a "Six-by" and Osgosh plow landed at various airports through out the State because of MAMA's efforts. Additionally, to help GA grow in Mass and seek as much help as they could from FAA and MAC.
Over the years MAMA has fought many issues that concerned airport operations. Early leaders worked on obtaining better funding from FAA and MAC. Annual Meetings were held to inform airports on various important issues including: Special fuel seminars and Seminars to educate and train airport Comissioners. MAMA provided scholarship money through its "Crocker Snow" Scholarship fund and promoted an internship program to help students interested in airport Management. Over the years, MAMA has continued to work hard to maintain the repeal on the tax for aircraft sales and aircraft parts.
MAMA continually provided its voice to politicians to support GA and airports, both nationally and in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
The following is a list of personalities involved with MAMA over the years---some driving forces and their accomplishments---
1970's
Chuck Olson----first MAMA president and organizer.
Pinkey Prentice----organizer, past President
Mel Thomas----airport commissioner (25 years) and organizer
Izzie Esinor---first parlmentarian and organizer.
Arnie Stynest---organizer and MAC Director—still active.
1980's
Warren Smith-----past President and Treasurer---long serving Director---still active
George Gifford---past president, develop Intern program---political action committee
Donald Dinneen----past President, private airport—public use airport operator (first)
David Graham---MAC Inspector and promoter of MAMA---still active
1990's
Ben Jones----MAMA by-laws and incorporation of Association
Dave Dinneen----past President, MAMA newspaper editor, organizer of Annual Meeting
over-all driving force of the organization.
Mike Bolton ----past President, organized direction for MAMA
Bill Weibrecht----past President and GA promotions
Mac MacKinen----past President and GA supporter
2000's
Chris Wellenborg---past President –organize “On the Hill Day” driving force for MAMA
Ann Pollard-----Organized Annual Meeting—very productive for MAMA
Bob Mallard---MAC Director –special support for MAMA
David Dineen---First Executive Director for MAMA. Appointed to the Position in 2009 for 2 years.
